How can you give feedback in a way that promotes active learning?
The Challenge
The next time you need to give feedback about a report, writing sample, PowerPoint, or other product that you might typically respond to online (e.g., through "track changes"), consider setting up a phone call or Zoom meeting instead. Make notes on what you'd like changed beforehand, but don't share those with the person who created it in advance of your call. Instead of pointing out what you'd like them to change, ask them leading questions: Where did you come up with these numbers? What was your thought process when you wrote this introduction/chose this design? What do you see here that you think I'll ask you to change? Make sure your tone is neutral rather than accusatory.
Why do this?
It's often easier to fix someone else's mistakes rather than take the time to explain why you'd like something done in a particular way. But engaging in a dialogue with them, you'll understand better where any disconnects are coming from and they'll be more likely to create a product you're happy with the first time around.
This type of feedback is more time-intensive up front, but you'll get that time back twice over down the line.
What’s next?
The next time you receive a similar product from this person, view it through the same lens. Did they apply your feedback more consistently this time around?
